Born in the San Diego long-range tuna fleet, the San Diego jam is a terminal knot built for heavier line and bigger lures. It holds its strength in the thick fluorocarbon and braid that make lesser knots slip or fail, which is why it has become a favorite for tuna and heavy inshore work.
When and why to use it
Use the San Diego jam to tie heavier fluorocarbon or braid to jigs, poppers, plugs and hooks, anywhere the loads are high and you need confidence in the connection. It is a top choice for tuna jigging and popping, and it works beautifully for surf and striper anglers throwing heavier plugs and jigs.
How it works
You run the tag through the eye and back up alongside the standing line, then wrap the tag down around both the tag and standing line several times toward the eye, and finally pass the tag through the loop at the top. Lubricate and pull it tight so the coils jam down neatly against the eye.
Tip Take enough wraps for the line size, more wraps for lighter line, fewer for heavy. As with any terminal knot, wet it and cinch slowly so the coils seat evenly rather than bunching.